US6846219B2 - Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup - Google Patents

Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US6846219B2
US6846219B2 US10/242,798 US24279802A US6846219B2 US 6846219 B2 US6846219 B2 US 6846219B2 US 24279802 A US24279802 A US 24279802A US 6846219 B2 US6846219 B2 US 6846219B2
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
brassiere
pair
frame
breast cups
stretchable
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime, expires
Application number
US10/242,798
Other versions
US20040053557A1 (en
Inventor
Phoebe Simonski Moyer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises LLC
Original Assignee
Sara Lee Intimate Apparel
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sara Lee Intimate Apparel filed Critical Sara Lee Intimate Apparel
Priority to CA002403250A priority Critical patent/CA2403250C/en
Priority to US10/242,798 priority patent/US6846219B2/en
Assigned to SARA LEE INTIMATE APPAREL reassignment SARA LEE INTIMATE APPAREL ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MOYER, PHOEBE SIMONSKI
Publication of US20040053557A1 publication Critical patent/US20040053557A1/en
Assigned to SARA LEE CORPORATION reassignment SARA LEE CORPORATION MERGER (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PLAYTEX APPAREL, INC.
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US6846219B2 publication Critical patent/US6846219B2/en
Assigned to SARA LEE CORPORATION reassignment SARA LEE CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SARA LEE INTIMATE APPAREL
Assigned to HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC reassignment HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SARA LEE CORPORATION
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT (SECOND LIEN) Assignors: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT FIRST LIEN Assignors: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC
Assigned to HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC reassignment HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC RELEASE OF SECOND LIEN SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAMES 018367/0353, 018367/0312, AND 018545/0521 Assignors: CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND COLLATERAL AGENT AMENDED AND RESTATED PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC, IT'S GREEK TO ME, INC., MAIDENFORM LLC
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: ALTERNATIVE APPAREL, INC., BA INTERNATIONAL, L.L.C., CC PRODUCTS LLC, CEIBENA DEL, INC., EVENT 1 LLC, GEARCO LLC, GFSI HOLDINGS LLC, GFSI LLC, GTM RETAIL, INC., HANES GLOBAL HOLDINGS U.S. INC., HANES JIBOA HOLDINGS, LLC, HANES MENSWEAR, LLC, HANESBRANDS DIRECT, LLC, HANESBRANDS EXPORT CANADA LLC, HANESBRANDS INC., HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES LLC, HBI INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS U.S., INC., HBI SOURCING, LLC, INNER SELF LLC, IT'S GREEK TO ME, INC., KNIGHTS APPAREL, LLC, KNIGHTS HOLDCO, LLC, MAIDENFORM (BANGLADESH) LLC, MAIDENFORM (INDONESIA) LLC, MAIDENFORM BRANDS LLC, MAIDENFORM INTERNATIONAL LLC, MAIDENFORM LLC, MF RETAIL LLC, PLAYTEX DORADO, LLC, PLAYTEX INDUSTRIES, INC., SEAMLESS TEXTILES LLC
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C5/00—Machines, appliances, or methods for manufacturing corsets or brassieres
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41F—GARMENT FASTENINGS; SUSPENDERS
    • A41F15/00—Shoulder or like straps
    • A41F15/007—Shoulder cushioning attachments

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to brassieres.
  • the present invention relates to a brassiere having a rigid or stabilized frame that reinforces each breast cup to provide support for the breast of the wearer without the need for an underwire.
  • a brassiere To be comfortable, a brassiere must combine both support for the wearer's breasts and freedom of movement for the wearer's body.
  • brassieres To provide freedom of movement to the wearer, some brassieres include a high percentage of stretchable materials, such as elastic. However, brassieres formed primarily of stretchable fabric may not provide sufficient breast support.
  • support underwires and/or non-stretchable fabric in certain areas.
  • support underwires especially when secured in place by non-stretchable material, can become an impediment to an active wearer.
  • support underwires especially during movement by an active wearer, may poke through the fabric of the brassiere.
  • brassieres that attempt to combine support and freedom of movement. For example, some brassieres place the underwires in an inner panel next to the skin, so that the underwires are spaced apart from the material forming the breast cups.
  • this configuration increases the complexity of the brassiere, and may do little to overcome the dual problem of achieving flexibility and support.
  • a brassiere that includes a body having a pair of breast cups, a rigid frame positioned adjacent to the side and bottom perimeters of the breast cups to act as a stabilizer and/or support for the breast cups, and a pair of back panels.
  • the frame acts as a stabilizing band that provides support to the breast cups of the brassiere, and thus the breasts of the wearer, and also functions similar to and as an underwire.
  • the present invention avoids the use of underwires.
  • the frame supporting the breast cups is made of a rigid polyester material.
  • the brassiere may further include a pair of shoulder straps, with each strap connected to a breast cup and a side panel.
  • the shoulder strap has a curvilinear shaped area that is wider than a conventional brassiere strap in order to increase the size of the load bearing region of the wearer's shoulder.
  • FIG. 1 is a front view of the brassiere according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a rear fiew of the brassiere of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the brassiere of FIG. 1 showing textured breast cups;
  • FIG. 4 is a front view of an alternate embodiment of the brassiere of FIG. 1 showing mesh knit back panels;
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the brassiere of FIG. 1 .
  • Brassiere 10 has a body with a pair of breast cups 20 , a frame 30 that supports each breast cup 20 , and a pair of back panels 40 , each connected at one end to an outer edge or seam 32 of frame 30 and at the other end adapted to be connected together. Brassiere 10 may also have a pair of shoulder straps 50 , each connected to a different breast cup 20 and back panel 40 .
  • Each breast cup 20 has two sides. A first side contacts the body of the wearer, while a second side faces away from the body of the wearer.
  • each breast cup 20 is made of a polyester material. More preferably, the polyester material is made of 100% polyester.
  • the polyester material of breast cup 20 is substantially non-stretchable in the horizontal and vertical directions.
  • each breast cup 20 may be made of stretchable materials or cut and sew materials with various combinations of stretch and/or non-stretch characteristics.
  • the polyester material of the first side of breast cup 20 has a smooth finish, while the polyester material of the second side has a textured satin finish. However, any finish of either of the first and second sides is possible.
  • Each back panel 40 is preferably peripherally connected to frame 30 .
  • Each back panel 40 is preferably made from one piece of stretchable material.
  • the stretchable material is stretchable in only a horizontal direction, and substantially non-stretchable in the vertical direction. More preferably, the stretchable material is stretchable in both the horizontal and vertical directions.
  • each back panel 40 can be made of a non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable material.
  • back panels 40 extend substantially sideways or horizontally, while shoulder straps 50 extend substantially vertically.
  • the stretchable material is a mesh knit.
  • the function of back panel 40 is to provide horizontal stretch (across the body or along the waistline) around the torso of the wearer. Each back panel 40 encircles the remainder of the torso of the wearer. Back panels 40 are removably joined together by conventional fasteners 60 , such as, for example, hook-and-eye closures. It should also be noted that back panel 40 may have one or more components; thus back panel 40 may include a separate side panel.
  • Frame 30 is made of a rigid material and is non-stretchable.
  • Frame 30 is made of a polyester material coated or impregnated with a resin.
  • a polyester material is 100% polyester. More preferably, the polyester material is a stabilized warp knit construction.
  • the buckram material is rigid, thereby providing support and durability. Buckram is usually coated to give it a smooth, soft finish.
  • the buckram material of frame 30 is laminated to a cotton blend material to make it smooth and soft, yet also firm against the body of the wearer.
  • Frame 30 has two side portions 33 on the dorsal side of breast cups 20 , bottom portions 31 under each breast cup 20 , and a central portion 36 between the breast cups.
  • Central portion 36 functions to separate the breasts of the wearer.
  • Central portion 36 is preferably virtually entirely between breast cups 20 in the vertical or substantially vertical direction. However, central portion 36 may only be partially between breast cups 20 should the style desire less coverage of the wearer's breasts.
  • Central portion 36 , bottom portions 31 and side portions 33 form a unitary, double U-shaped structure to support breast cups 20 .
  • Each bottom portion 31 provides support directly under each breast cup 20 .
  • Each side portion 33 and central portion 36 provide support about the sides of each breast cup 20 .
  • each breast cup 20 is virtually entirely supported by a rigid material, which emulates an underwire.
  • Frame 30 functions as a stabilizer band for breast cups 20 and provides support for the breasts of the wearer.
  • Frame 30 serves the same function as an underwire, namely to stabilize breast cups 20 of brassiere 10 and support the sides and underneath areas of the breasts of the wearer.
  • frame 30 has the advantage of not being as stiff as a traditional underwire and, thus, is more body friendly to the wearer.
  • Each side portion has an outer edge or seam 32 and an inner edge or seam 34 .
  • Outer edge 32 is peripherally connected to side panel 40 .
  • Inner edge 34 is peripherally connected to breast cup 20 .
  • a binding 38 covers outer edge 32 and inner edge 34 . Binding 38 adds thickness to outer edge 32 and inner edge 34 to enhance the comfort of frame 30 against the body of the wearer. Also, binding 38 functions similar to a stay as it provides additional structure and support to outer edge 32 .
  • Brassiere 10 preferably has a pair of shoulder straps 50 that connect to breast cups 20 and back panels 40 .
  • the shoulder straps 50 preferably are adjustable.
  • each shoulder strap 50 is anatomically shaped so that it conforms to the shape of the shoulder of the wearer.
  • each shoulder strap 50 has a curvilinear shaped area 70 that is wider than a conventional brassiere strap to increase the size of the load bearing region of the wearer's shoulder.
  • the shaped area 70 deviates from the vertical plane created by a conventional brassiere strap. This deviation permits the shaped area 70 to fit, as desired, in accordance with the contour or anatomy of a top of a shoulder of the wearer.
  • shaped area 70 is in the form of an elongated oval.
  • shaped area 70 is filled with a cushioning material, preferably a gelatinous cushioning material.
  • Brassiere 10 is assembled, except for fasteners 60 .
  • breast cups 20 , frame 30 and back panels 40 are formed together.
  • the polyester material of the outer cup fabric of breast cups 20 is attached to frame 30 .
  • the bottom edge of the polyester material of breast cups 20 is slightly longer than the material of frame 30 .
  • the extra material is folded over the bottom edge of frame 30 and hemmed to provide a smooth bottom edge to brassiere 10 .
  • an elastic band 80 shown in FIG. 2 , is attached to the entire bottom edge of brassiere 10 (excluding fasteners 60 ) and, preferably is top stitched. Thereafter, fasteners 60 are attached to brassiere 10 .

Abstract

There is provided a brassiere that includes a body having a pair of breast cups, a rigid frame positioned adjacent to the side and bottom perimeters of the breast cups to act as a stabilizer for the breast cups, and a pair of back panels, each connected to an outer edge of the frame. Preferably, the frame supporting the breast cups is made of a rigid polyester material. The brassiere may further include a pair of shoulder straps.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to brassieres. Particularly, the present invention relates to a brassiere having a rigid or stabilized frame that reinforces each breast cup to provide support for the breast of the wearer without the need for an underwire.
2. Description of the Prior Art
To be comfortable, a brassiere must combine both support for the wearer's breasts and freedom of movement for the wearer's body.
To provide freedom of movement to the wearer, some brassieres include a high percentage of stretchable materials, such as elastic. However, brassieres formed primarily of stretchable fabric may not provide sufficient breast support.
To achieve a suitable level of support for the breast, most brassieres use support underwires and/or non-stretchable fabric in certain areas. However, support underwires, especially when secured in place by non-stretchable material, can become an impediment to an active wearer. Moreover, support underwires, especially during movement by an active wearer, may poke through the fabric of the brassiere.
There are brassieres that attempt to combine support and freedom of movement. For example, some brassieres place the underwires in an inner panel next to the skin, so that the underwires are spaced apart from the material forming the breast cups. However, this configuration increases the complexity of the brassiere, and may do little to overcome the dual problem of achieving flexibility and support.
Given the foregoing, there is a need for a brassiere that provides freedom of movement without discomfort, as well as support for the breasts, during all activities of the wearer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a brassiere that has freedom of movement without adversely effecting the brassiere's ability to support the wearer's breast.
It is another object of the present invention to provide such a brassiere that has a frame that stabilizes and supports, at least at the bottom portion of the brassiere.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide full bust support.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a brassiere that has an adjustable fit.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a brassiere that may have stretchable back panels.
It is still a further object of the present invention to provide such a brassiere that has a frame that supports the breast cups and eliminates the need for an underwire to provide support for the breasts of the wearer thereby enhancing natural shaping and comfort.
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention are achieved by a brassiere that includes a body having a pair of breast cups, a rigid frame positioned adjacent to the side and bottom perimeters of the breast cups to act as a stabilizer and/or support for the breast cups, and a pair of back panels. The frame acts as a stabilizing band that provides support to the breast cups of the brassiere, and thus the breasts of the wearer, and also functions similar to and as an underwire. However, the present invention avoids the use of underwires. Preferably, the frame supporting the breast cups is made of a rigid polyester material. The brassiere may further include a pair of shoulder straps, with each strap connected to a breast cup and a side panel. In a preferred embodiment, the shoulder strap has a curvilinear shaped area that is wider than a conventional brassiere strap in order to increase the size of the load bearing region of the wearer's shoulder.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a front view of the brassiere according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a rear fiew of the brassiere of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the brassiere of FIG. 1 showing textured breast cups;
FIG. 4 is a front view of an alternate embodiment of the brassiere of FIG. 1 showing mesh knit back panels; and
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the brassiere of FIG. 1.
 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawings and, in particular, FIG. 1, there is provided a brassiere according to the present invention, generally represented by reference numeral 10. Brassiere 10 has a body with a pair of breast cups 20, a frame 30 that supports each breast cup 20, and a pair of back panels 40, each connected at one end to an outer edge or seam 32 of frame 30 and at the other end adapted to be connected together. Brassiere 10 may also have a pair of shoulder straps 50, each connected to a different breast cup 20 and back panel 40.
Each breast cup 20 has two sides. A first side contacts the body of the wearer, while a second side faces away from the body of the wearer. Preferably, each breast cup 20 is made of a polyester material. More preferably, the polyester material is made of 100% polyester. In this preferred embodiment, the polyester material of breast cup 20 is substantially non-stretchable in the horizontal and vertical directions. However, each breast cup 20 may be made of stretchable materials or cut and sew materials with various combinations of stretch and/or non-stretch characteristics. In the preferred embodiment, the polyester material of the first side of breast cup 20 has a smooth finish, while the polyester material of the second side has a textured satin finish. However, any finish of either of the first and second sides is possible.
Each back panel 40 is preferably peripherally connected to frame 30. Each back panel 40 is preferably made from one piece of stretchable material. Preferably, the stretchable material is stretchable in only a horizontal direction, and substantially non-stretchable in the vertical direction. More preferably, the stretchable material is stretchable in both the horizontal and vertical directions. However, each back panel 40 can be made of a non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable material.
As used herein the terms “sideways,” “vertical,” and “horizontal” are defined in reference to the orientation of brassiere 10 as it would be positioned on a wearer's body. Thus, back panels 40 extend substantially sideways or horizontally, while shoulder straps 50 extend substantially vertically.
In a preferred embodiment, the stretchable material is a mesh knit. The function of back panel 40 is to provide horizontal stretch (across the body or along the waistline) around the torso of the wearer. Each back panel 40 encircles the remainder of the torso of the wearer. Back panels 40 are removably joined together by conventional fasteners 60, such as, for example, hook-and-eye closures. It should also be noted that back panel 40 may have one or more components; thus back panel 40 may include a separate side panel.
As shown in FIG. 2, the side and bottom perimeters of each breast cup 20 are supported by frame 30. Frame 30 is made of a rigid material and is non-stretchable. Frame 30 is made of a polyester material coated or impregnated with a resin. Such a material is known in the textile industry as “buckram”. Preferably, the polyester material is 100% polyester. More preferably, the polyester material is a stabilized warp knit construction. The buckram material is rigid, thereby providing support and durability. Buckram is usually coated to give it a smooth, soft finish. In the present invention, the buckram material of frame 30 is laminated to a cotton blend material to make it smooth and soft, yet also firm against the body of the wearer.
Frame 30 has two side portions 33 on the dorsal side of breast cups 20, bottom portions 31 under each breast cup 20, and a central portion 36 between the breast cups. Central portion 36 functions to separate the breasts of the wearer. Central portion 36 is preferably virtually entirely between breast cups 20 in the vertical or substantially vertical direction. However, central portion 36 may only be partially between breast cups 20 should the style desire less coverage of the wearer's breasts. Central portion 36, bottom portions 31 and side portions 33 form a unitary, double U-shaped structure to support breast cups 20. Each bottom portion 31 provides support directly under each breast cup 20. Each side portion 33 and central portion 36 provide support about the sides of each breast cup 20. Thus, each breast cup 20 is virtually entirely supported by a rigid material, which emulates an underwire.
Frame 30 functions as a stabilizer band for breast cups 20 and provides support for the breasts of the wearer. Frame 30 serves the same function as an underwire, namely to stabilize breast cups 20 of brassiere 10 and support the sides and underneath areas of the breasts of the wearer. However, frame 30 has the advantage of not being as stiff as a traditional underwire and, thus, is more body friendly to the wearer.
Each side portion has an outer edge or seam 32 and an inner edge or seam 34. Outer edge 32 is peripherally connected to side panel 40. Inner edge 34 is peripherally connected to breast cup 20. A binding 38 covers outer edge 32 and inner edge 34. Binding 38 adds thickness to outer edge 32 and inner edge 34 to enhance the comfort of frame 30 against the body of the wearer. Also, binding 38 functions similar to a stay as it provides additional structure and support to outer edge 32.
Brassiere 10 preferably has a pair of shoulder straps 50 that connect to breast cups 20 and back panels 40. The shoulder straps 50 preferably are adjustable. In a preferred embodiment, each shoulder strap 50 is anatomically shaped so that it conforms to the shape of the shoulder of the wearer. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, each shoulder strap 50 has a curvilinear shaped area 70 that is wider than a conventional brassiere strap to increase the size of the load bearing region of the wearer's shoulder. The shaped area 70 deviates from the vertical plane created by a conventional brassiere strap. This deviation permits the shaped area 70 to fit, as desired, in accordance with the contour or anatomy of a top of a shoulder of the wearer. In the preferred embodiment, shaped area 70 is in the form of an elongated oval. Also, in the preferred embodiment shaped area 70 is filled with a cushioning material, preferably a gelatinous cushioning material.
Brassiere 10 is assembled, except for fasteners 60. Namely, breast cups 20, frame 30 and back panels 40 are formed together. Then, the polyester material of the outer cup fabric of breast cups 20 is attached to frame 30. The bottom edge of the polyester material of breast cups 20 is slightly longer than the material of frame 30. The extra material is folded over the bottom edge of frame 30 and hemmed to provide a smooth bottom edge to brassiere 10. Afterwards, an elastic band 80, shown in FIG. 2, is attached to the entire bottom edge of brassiere 10 (excluding fasteners 60) and, preferably is top stitched. Thereafter, fasteners 60 are attached to brassiere 10.
The present invention having been described with particular reference to the preferred forms thereof, it will be obvious that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (27)

1. A brassiere comprising:
a pair of breast cups, each of said pair of breast cups having a first side and a second side, said first side contacting a breast of wearer, said second side being opposite said first side;
a frame positioned adjacent to a dorsal edge of each of said pair of breast cups, said frame having at least two side portions, at least two bottom portions, and a central portion, said central portion being positioned between said pair of breast cups wherein said frame is made of a polyester material coated with a resin, each of said at least two side portions being connected to a different one of said pair of breast cups; and
a pair of back panels, each of said pair of back panels being connected to a different one of said at least two side portions.
2. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said frame is made of a rigid, non-stretchable material.
3. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said frame is made of a polyester material coated with a resin laminated to a cotton blend material.
4. The brassiere of claim 3, wherein said polyester material is a warp knit construction.
5. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said frame is a stabilizer band for said pair of breast cups.
6. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said frame provides support for breasts of a wearer.
7. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said central portion of said frame separates breasts of a wearer.
8. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said central portion of said frame is positioned between each of said pair of breast cups in a substantially vertical direction.
9. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said central portion, said at least two bottom portions and said at least two side portions form a unitary, double U-shaped structure.
10. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said at least two bottom portions provide support directly under each of said pair of breast cups.
11. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said at least two side portions and said central portions provide support to said pair of breast cups.
12. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said brassiere has a pair of shoulder straps, each of said pair of shoulder strap being connected to a different one of said pair of breast cups and back panels.
13. The brassiere of claim 12, wherein each of said pair of shoulder straps has a curvilinear shaped area positioned in said shoulder strap.
14. The brassiere of claim 13, wherein said curvilinear shaped area is filled with a cushioning material.
15. The brassiere of claim 14, wherein said cushioning material is a gelatinous material.
16. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said pair of breast cups is made of a polyester material.
17. The brassiere of claim 16, wherein said polyester material is 100 percent polyester.
18. The brassiere of claim 16, wherein said polyester material is substantially non-stretchable in a vertical direction and substantially non-stretchable in a horizontal direction.
19. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said pair of breast cups is made of a stretchable material.
20. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein each of said pair of breast cups has a side that is textured.
21. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein each of said pair of back panels is made of a stretchable material.
22. The brassiere of claim 21, wherein said stretchable material is a mesh knit.
23. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein each of said pair of back panels is stretchable in a horizontal direction and substantially non-stretchable in a vertical direction.
24. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein each of said pair of back panels is stretchable in a horizontal direction and stretchable in a vertical direction.
25. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein said back panel includes a side panel.
26. A method for assembling a brassiere, which comprises:
(a) attaching an outer breast cup fabric to a frame, said outer breast cup fabric being greater in length than said frame;
(b) folding said outer breast cup fabric over a bottom edge of said frame;
(c) hemming said outer breast cup fabric to said frame;
(d) attaching a pair of back panels to an outer edge of said frame; and
(e) attaching an elastic band to a bottom edge of said brassiere.
27. The method of claim 26, further comprising thereafter attaching a fastener to said back panels.
US10/242,798 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup Expired - Lifetime US6846219B2 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA002403250A CA2403250C (en) 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cups
US10/242,798 US6846219B2 (en) 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA002403250A CA2403250C (en) 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cups
US10/242,798 US6846219B2 (en) 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040053557A1 US20040053557A1 (en) 2004-03-18
US6846219B2 true US6846219B2 (en) 2005-01-25

Family

ID=32928337

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/242,798 Expired - Lifetime US6846219B2 (en) 2002-09-13 2002-09-13 Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US6846219B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2403250C (en)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008040141A1 (en) * 2006-09-07 2008-04-10 Clover Group International Limited Shoulder strap and method for manufacturing the same
US20110088134A1 (en) * 2009-10-16 2011-04-21 Cristine Farrer Multiple active swimwear set featuring separate full bra support and interchangeable pieces
US20130183885A1 (en) * 2010-09-27 2013-07-18 Wacoal Corp. Garment with Cup Sections
US9241514B2 (en) 2010-08-25 2016-01-26 Qp Holdings Limited Bra
US9867402B2 (en) 2014-12-10 2018-01-16 Bazooka Jane, Inc. Breast support structure
US10588359B2 (en) 2015-11-05 2020-03-17 Veil Intimates Llc Formed brassiere and associated method of manufacture
US10660377B2 (en) * 2016-05-16 2020-05-26 Mast Industries (Far East) Limited Brassiere and front panel for brassiere
US10993483B2 (en) 2017-05-05 2021-05-04 Veil Intimates Llc Brassiere and associated method of manufacture
US20220256941A1 (en) * 2021-02-12 2022-08-18 Chico's Brands Investments, Inc. Bra with intermediary flexible layer and method for manufacturing same
US11452317B2 (en) * 2018-03-28 2022-09-27 IFGCure Holdings, LLC. Posture correction bra
US11484076B2 (en) 2019-10-21 2022-11-01 Adidas Ag Article of apparel

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10441003B2 (en) * 2011-03-02 2019-10-15 Clover Mystique Co. Limited X-shaped brassiere support and brassiere incorporating such support
US10575575B2 (en) * 2017-05-10 2020-03-03 Delta Textiles (London) Ltd Bra strap
KR102387021B1 (en) * 2019-12-19 2022-04-15 김동현 Fusing brassiere

Citations (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US159505A (en) 1875-02-09 Improvement in middlings-purifiers
US202267A (en) 1878-04-09 Improvement in seal-fastenings
US220897A (en) 1879-10-21 Improvement in lifting-jacks
US265141A (en) 1882-09-26 putnam
US279726A (en) 1883-06-19 Lewis d
US2109172A (en) 1937-05-26 1938-02-22 Green Lucille Brassiere
US2485313A (en) 1947-05-17 1949-10-18 Rabinowitz Harry Brassiere
US2895481A (en) 1958-11-13 1959-07-21 Lily Of France Inc Brassiere frame
US2973764A (en) 1958-10-15 1961-03-07 Corde De Parie Corset Company Brassiere construction
US2992646A (en) * 1959-08-31 1961-07-18 Jerry J Weinberg Brassiere attachment
US3062216A (en) * 1960-02-23 1962-11-06 Sears Roebuck & Co Brassiere
US3108598A (en) 1959-06-18 1963-10-29 Int Latex Corp Method of making non-wrinkling brassieres
US3291132A (en) 1965-02-12 1966-12-13 Maidenform Inc Self-positioning brassiere
US3320959A (en) 1965-02-17 1967-05-23 Fridolph Maude Constance Brassiere
US3358691A (en) 1965-10-18 1967-12-19 Treo Company Inc Brassiere
US3378012A (en) 1966-03-29 1968-04-16 S & S Ind Inc Brassiere supporting frames
US3393681A (en) 1965-11-10 1968-07-23 Sarong Inc Arched bands brassiere
US3789098A (en) 1971-06-11 1974-01-29 Int Playtex Corp Methods and apparatus for constructing knitted brassiere blanks and brassieres
US3873403A (en) 1973-07-02 1975-03-25 Maid Rite Novelty Corp Stretchable strap material
US4375445A (en) 1981-07-06 1983-03-01 International Playtex, Inc. Method for forming two-layer brassiere cup
US4432364A (en) 1983-05-13 1984-02-21 Consolidated Foods Corporation Brassiere
US4572195A (en) 1984-01-18 1986-02-25 Wiener Laces, Inc. Method of forming seamless fabric cups and resulting products
US4617934A (en) * 1985-07-25 1986-10-21 International Playtex, Inc. Brassiere frame
US4945571A (en) * 1988-09-26 1990-08-07 In Motion, Inc. Liquid-cushioned outerwear
US5165113A (en) * 1992-01-27 1992-11-24 Vanity Fair Mills, Inc. Padded straps for garments and method of making same
US5215494A (en) 1992-04-20 1993-06-01 Flanagan Patricia C Breast foundation and natural support
US6439959B1 (en) 2000-07-20 2002-08-27 Vanity Fair, Inc. Wireless support for brassiere

Patent Citations (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US159505A (en) 1875-02-09 Improvement in middlings-purifiers
US202267A (en) 1878-04-09 Improvement in seal-fastenings
US220897A (en) 1879-10-21 Improvement in lifting-jacks
US265141A (en) 1882-09-26 putnam
US279726A (en) 1883-06-19 Lewis d
US2109172A (en) 1937-05-26 1938-02-22 Green Lucille Brassiere
US2485313A (en) 1947-05-17 1949-10-18 Rabinowitz Harry Brassiere
US2973764A (en) 1958-10-15 1961-03-07 Corde De Parie Corset Company Brassiere construction
US2895481A (en) 1958-11-13 1959-07-21 Lily Of France Inc Brassiere frame
US3108598A (en) 1959-06-18 1963-10-29 Int Latex Corp Method of making non-wrinkling brassieres
US2992646A (en) * 1959-08-31 1961-07-18 Jerry J Weinberg Brassiere attachment
US3062216A (en) * 1960-02-23 1962-11-06 Sears Roebuck & Co Brassiere
US3291132A (en) 1965-02-12 1966-12-13 Maidenform Inc Self-positioning brassiere
US3320959A (en) 1965-02-17 1967-05-23 Fridolph Maude Constance Brassiere
US3358691A (en) 1965-10-18 1967-12-19 Treo Company Inc Brassiere
US3393681A (en) 1965-11-10 1968-07-23 Sarong Inc Arched bands brassiere
US3378012A (en) 1966-03-29 1968-04-16 S & S Ind Inc Brassiere supporting frames
US3789098A (en) 1971-06-11 1974-01-29 Int Playtex Corp Methods and apparatus for constructing knitted brassiere blanks and brassieres
US3873403A (en) 1973-07-02 1975-03-25 Maid Rite Novelty Corp Stretchable strap material
US4375445A (en) 1981-07-06 1983-03-01 International Playtex, Inc. Method for forming two-layer brassiere cup
US4432364A (en) 1983-05-13 1984-02-21 Consolidated Foods Corporation Brassiere
US4572195A (en) 1984-01-18 1986-02-25 Wiener Laces, Inc. Method of forming seamless fabric cups and resulting products
US4617934A (en) * 1985-07-25 1986-10-21 International Playtex, Inc. Brassiere frame
US4945571A (en) * 1988-09-26 1990-08-07 In Motion, Inc. Liquid-cushioned outerwear
US5165113A (en) * 1992-01-27 1992-11-24 Vanity Fair Mills, Inc. Padded straps for garments and method of making same
US5215494A (en) 1992-04-20 1993-06-01 Flanagan Patricia C Breast foundation and natural support
US6439959B1 (en) 2000-07-20 2002-08-27 Vanity Fair, Inc. Wireless support for brassiere

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008040141A1 (en) * 2006-09-07 2008-04-10 Clover Group International Limited Shoulder strap and method for manufacturing the same
US20110088134A1 (en) * 2009-10-16 2011-04-21 Cristine Farrer Multiple active swimwear set featuring separate full bra support and interchangeable pieces
US9241514B2 (en) 2010-08-25 2016-01-26 Qp Holdings Limited Bra
US10028540B2 (en) 2010-08-25 2018-07-24 Qp Holdings Limited Bra
US20130183885A1 (en) * 2010-09-27 2013-07-18 Wacoal Corp. Garment with Cup Sections
US9867402B2 (en) 2014-12-10 2018-01-16 Bazooka Jane, Inc. Breast support structure
US10588359B2 (en) 2015-11-05 2020-03-17 Veil Intimates Llc Formed brassiere and associated method of manufacture
US10660377B2 (en) * 2016-05-16 2020-05-26 Mast Industries (Far East) Limited Brassiere and front panel for brassiere
US11172711B2 (en) 2016-05-16 2021-11-16 Mast Industries (Far East) Limited Brassiere and front panel for brassiere
US10993483B2 (en) 2017-05-05 2021-05-04 Veil Intimates Llc Brassiere and associated method of manufacture
US11452317B2 (en) * 2018-03-28 2022-09-27 IFGCure Holdings, LLC. Posture correction bra
US11484076B2 (en) 2019-10-21 2022-11-01 Adidas Ag Article of apparel
US11903435B2 (en) 2019-10-21 2024-02-20 Adidas Ag Article of apparel
US20220256941A1 (en) * 2021-02-12 2022-08-18 Chico's Brands Investments, Inc. Bra with intermediary flexible layer and method for manufacturing same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2403250A1 (en) 2004-03-13
CA2403250C (en) 2007-07-31
US20040053557A1 (en) 2004-03-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE41654E1 (en) Garment with interior bra structure with side supports
US7517273B2 (en) Support bra
US6530820B1 (en) Garment with integral brassiere
US6846219B2 (en) Rigid frame brassiere with soft cup
US4372320A (en) Article of clothing having built-in bust support
US4583544A (en) Sports bra
US7207861B2 (en) Cushioned underwire
US4767377A (en) Brassiere
US10201192B1 (en) Sports bra
US8113908B1 (en) Stiffened brassiere
US20050005340A1 (en) Article of clothing
US3566878A (en) Brassieres
US9320305B1 (en) Garment having integrated breast support
US7513817B2 (en) Brassiere with cup edge enhancing structure
US4432364A (en) Brassiere
US20190208834A1 (en) Balanced front wrap continuous wing deep cradle bra
US6485352B1 (en) Brassiere
US4292975A (en) Brassiere
US7438625B2 (en) Central gore with crossed pieces and powernet construction
US20050130558A1 (en) Support bra
US20050221718A1 (en) Brassiere
US2031022A (en) Combination garment
KR200438139Y1 (en) Functional brassiere with a dividing pad
JP3069237B2 (en) Women's clothing with breast cup
KR101796624B1 (en) Brassiere for breast correction

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: SARA LEE INTIMATE APPAREL, NORTH CAROLINA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MOYER, PHOEBE SIMONSKI;REEL/FRAME:013526/0605

Effective date: 20021113

AS Assignment

Owner name: SARA LEE CORPORATION, NORTH CAROLINA

Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:PLAYTEX APPAREL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:015251/0110

Effective date: 20031231

Owner name: SARA LEE CORPORATION,NORTH CAROLINA

Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:PLAYTEX APPAREL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:015251/0110

Effective date: 20031231

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

AS Assignment

Owner name: SARA LEE CORPORATION, NORTH CAROLINA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SARA LEE INTIMATE APPAREL;REEL/FRAME:016630/0413

Effective date: 20051011

AS Assignment

Owner name: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC,NORTH CAROLIN

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SARA LEE CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:018279/0527

Effective date: 20060901

Owner name: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC, NORTH CAROLI

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SARA LEE CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:018279/0527

Effective date: 20060901

AS Assignment

Owner name: CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT, NEW YORK

Free format text: PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT (SECOND LIEN);ASSIGNOR:HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC;REEL/FRAME:018367/0312

Effective date: 20060905

Owner name: CITIBANK, N.A., AS THE COLLATERAL AGENT, NEW YORK

Free format text: PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT FIRST LIEN;ASSIGNOR:HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC;REEL/FRAME:018367/0291

Effective date: 20060905

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

AS Assignment

Owner name: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC, NORTH CAROLI

Free format text: RELEASE OF SECOND LIEN SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAMES 018367/0353, 018367/0312, AND 018545/0521;ASSIGNOR:CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT;REEL/FRAME:023627/0842

Effective date: 20091210

Owner name: HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC,NORTH CAROLIN

Free format text: RELEASE OF SECOND LIEN SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAMES 018367/0353, 018367/0312, AND 018545/0521;ASSIGNOR:CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT;REEL/FRAME:023627/0842

Effective date: 20091210

AS Assignment

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT

Free format text: AMENDED AND RESTATED PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC;REEL/FRAME:023649/0812

Effective date: 20091210

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 12

AS Assignment

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT, ILLINOIS

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC;IT'S GREEK TO ME, INC.;MAIDENFORM LLC;REEL/FRAME:045029/0132

Effective date: 20171215

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT, IL

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HBI BRANDED APPAREL ENTERPRISES, LLC;IT'S GREEK TO ME, INC.;MAIDENFORM LLC;REEL/FRAME:045029/0132

Effective date: 20171215

AS Assignment

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., ILLINOIS

Free format text: FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:HANESBRANDS INC.;ALTERNATIVE APPAREL, INC.;BA INTERNATIONAL, L.L.C.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:059910/0685

Effective date: 20220418